14 arrested on drug charges during police raid

Officers arrested 14 people on various drug charges Tuesday after crime tips led to raids on three homes in the 1000 block of North De Leon Street.

The Victoria Police Department Special Crimes Unit and SWAT team found marijuana, crack cocaine, various types of pills and a handgun after serving the warrants about 7 p.m.

"Tips were coming in because of the high traffic in that area," said Sgt. Eline Moya, of the Victoria Police Department. "And it was complaints from the community of suspected narcotic activity."

The apartments were used to deliver drugs, Moya said.

The charges for some of those arrested included manufacturing and delivering a controlled substance, engaging in organized criminal activity, possession of dangerous drugs and possession of a controlled substance.

The ages of those arrested ranged from 18 to 53.

Moya said it is unknown whether gang activity was involved, and the investigation is ongoing. She said more arrests could be made after officers continue their investigation.

"This is another great example of good police work and our department collaboration with our public safety partners in responding to citizen complaints and Crimestoppers tips of drug distribution locations here in our city," Police Chief JJ Craig said in a statement. "The number of individuals arrested demonstrates our continued commitment in addressing these issues in our community."

The Victoria County Sheriff's Office, the Department of Public Safety and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms assisted in making the arrests.